    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2004, Book III)]
    [December 8, 2004]
    [Page 3058]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Resignation of Anthony J. Principi as Secretary of Veterans Affairs
    December 8, 2004

        As a valuable member of my Cabinet, Tony Principi has served as a
    tireless advocate for 25 million veterans. He has insisted on results,
    and he has gotten results. Under Tony's leadership, we have honored our
    veterans for their service and sacrifice by increasing and improving
    health care services, working to eliminate the waiting list for medical
    care, and cutting the disability claims backlog. I appreciate his
    efforts to improve access to health care for low-income veterans and
    those with service-related disabilities. As we fight the war on terror,
    Tony has played a vital role in helping to streamline the transition
    from military to civilian status for our newest veterans.
        I thank Tony for serving our veterans and our country with integrity
    and dignity. He is a good man and a good friend. I am grateful to Tony,
    Liz, and the entire Principi family.

     Note: The Office of the Press Secretary also made available Secretary
    Principi's letter of resignation.